Q. Congratulations to the LEDeG team for receiving the State Award for its initiatives on Social Reforms, Empowerment, and Environmental Protection. Please tell us about yourself and your journey with LEDeG.

Jullay! I am Eshey Tundup. I previously worked in the Government Education Department and served as the Principal of Lamdon Model Senior Secondary School for around 22 years. I left in 2018 and have been working with LEDeG ever since.

Q. When did LEDeG established and with what motivation and vision?

The group was founded in1983, initially known as ‘Ladakh Chapter’, pioneered by Helena Norberg-Hodge, an activist and author from Sweden. She was among the first foreign tourists or visitors to Ladakh when it initially began making space for tourist exploration. She visited, explored and observed different corners of Ladakh. She came out with a result or realisation that, the place’s reckless developments, carried forward without proper mapping and planning can drastically impact its environment and leave footprints on people’s lifestyle, culture and traditions.

Tsewang Rigzin, Lakrook was the first Ladakhi president of the Group. The significance of the organisation was recognised by native leaders hence, Dr. Sonam Dawa, Thupstan Tsewang. Ven Paldan also headed the group in achieving its intentions for Ladakh’s future. 

The vision laid for the preservation of primitive yet sustainable lifestyle ancestors lived, cultural and traditional livelihood followed in the society and protection of its fragile environment. 

Since its formation, LEDeG has worked for Ladakh’s welfare from North-South and East-West. It primarily focussed on spreading awareness on importance of well-prepared development plan for a place like Ladakh, especially environmental stewardship and sustainable measures, vital to secure it for future generations. Along with advocating on Environment protection, LEDeG developed solarised water heater, promoted passive/active solar house, introduced Trombe wall to prevent the usage of carbon-emitting fuels such as diesels and kerosene which are major pollutants commonly used in households. LEDeg has been consistent in expanding its environment friendly initiatives till date.

Q.Since LEDeG focuses on environmental actions, must have conducted researches and surveys as well, so can you brief us about the transformation Ladakh gone through? Where is it inclined to more, positive or negative?

The expansion of human settlements and livelihood activities has had an adverse effect on Ladakh’s ecosystem, leading to ecological imbalance. Ladakh is now facing environmental challenges similar to those seen worldwide.

One of the key factors contributing to environmental degradation is the evolving lifestyle of its people. Human-driven developments have led to road construction in once-isolated, snow-covered mountains, a surge in vehicle numbers far exceeding the population, and a growing waste crisis with inadequate management and preservation efforts. The rapid shift in lifestyle and the increasing scale of human activities have significantly disrupted Ladakh’s ecological balance.

From my observations, the negative impacts outweigh the positive. Environmental damage is a direct consequence of our own actions and the way we exploit natural resources. Instead of shifting blame, we must take responsibility and implement mindful measures to mitigate and control further damage.

Q. Research and surveys have highlighted concerns about unsafe drinking water in Leh. Do you believe Ladakh is currently facing a water crisis, or is it at risk of one in the future?

Water is essential for human habitation and ecosystem sustainability. However, in Ladakh, water is being excessively used and exploited beyond its natural availability and recharge capacity.

LEDeG has conducted research and surveys on water quality and availability, revealing growing concerns. The increasing number of guesthouses, hotels, restaurants, and modern facilities has led to higher water consumption. Traditionally, Ladakhis used soil-based toilets that converted waste into manure, but there is now a shift towards water-flush toilets, which consume significant amounts of water. Overloaded septic tanks and sewage systems often leak, contaminating underground water sources.

Additionally, the excessive extraction of underground water through bore wells is a serious issue. Ladakh, being an arid region with minimal rainfall, has a slow underground water recharge rate. Over-extraction depletes underground water reserves and reduces their natural replenishment capacity.
If these issues are not addressed through proper planning and management, the situation could worsen, leading to severe water contamination and scarcity. Historically, Ladakhi ancestors revered natural water sources—springs, rivers, and lakes—protecting them from contamination and using water judiciously. In contrast, today's reckless exploitation and pollution of water resources pose a serious threat to Ladakh’s fragile ecosystem.

Q. What is the significance of sustainable livelihood in protecting the environment from reckless human activities?

Adopting a sustainable livelihood is crucial for the responsible and judicious use of Earth’s resources. If we fail to recognize the importance of using resources only as per our necessity, pollution and environmental degradation will continue to escalate.

For instance, while some villages face displacement due to water scarcity, many still extract water excessively and waste it without consideration. Sustainable practices help ensure that resources are used efficiently, minimizing waste and reducing the negative impact on the environment.

Q. What measures can be taken to protect and preserve the Earth for future generations?

Timely Action: Addressing ecological concerns at the right time is essential. Resources should be preserved and used responsibly—only as per necessity, not to satisfy excessive or greedy demands.
Sustainable Practices: Eliminating unsustainable habits and re-adopting traditional, eco-friendly lifestyles can significantly contribute to environmental preservation.
Intergenerational Responsibility: Our ancestor’s upheld deep respect for natural elements, keeping them unpolluted. Similarly, future generations must inherit and continue a sustainable way of life.

If changes are not implemented swiftly, the future remains uncertain. We may find ourselves living the reality of the saying: “Where there is no water, there is no village.” 

Message to the Readers

"Everyone must be responsible and mindful of their actions. Sustainability is key to preserving Ladakh for future generations. It’s not too late—nature can thrive if we care for it. Let’s take accountability and protect our environment together."